Last night’s severe storm caused widespread damage throughout the City. We deployed personnel and equipment resources as soon as the storm began to address and mitigate the damage.

I am pleased to share that there have been no storm-related injuries reported.

At about 8:30 pm, while the storm was still in progress, the City’s leadership began to mobilize and, under the direction of Fire Chief Patrick Sweeney, moved quickly to open the Emergency Operations Center in order to coordinate the City’s response to the storm and its aftermath. The team worked throughout the night to ensure the safety of residents and property, assess the extent of the damage, and coordinate and communicate the response.

Here’s what we know:

• There is significant tree damage throughout the City, but especially in the northwest quadrant around Lower Lakes, which sustained the most significant damage.

• We are aware of some property damage, mostly to cars, but to some homes as well.

• At its height, 1.5 inches of rain fell in just 15 minutes refilling the previously drained Green Lake.

• Trees are reported down in more than 50 locations. Many of them have blocked roadways and sidewalks, and have taken down power lines. Large branches, brush and debris are strewn across roads and yards throughout the City.

• Public Works crews have been working around the clock to safely remove trees and open blocked roads. In some cases, live power lines are entangled in the trees. This situation requires assistance from First Energy, which slows the removal process. Public Works crews are working diligently to clean up as quickly as possible, but it will likely take more than a week before everything is cleared due to the extent of the damage. Priority is being given to making sure all roads are passable. We ask for your patience and understanding as we have balance the workload with the health and safety of the crew.

• If you have not already done so, please report power outages to First Energy. Check their website to monitor information related to an estimated time for power restoration.

I am impressed by the many acts of kindness I’ve seen posted on social media from neighbors with power offering to assist those without power to the Main Library inviting residents to stop by to charge their phones. Shaker’s generous spirit always shines, but is especially bright when challenges arise.

I know many of you are still dealing with aftermath of the storm. We are here to provide assistance, if we are able, and will continue to work diligently to restore normal operations throughout Shaker as quickly as possible.